Conclave

(Directed by Edward Berger, 2024) [Thanks to our Guest Reviewer, Dr. Jack White]

Last night, I attended the final night of the Italian Film Festival in Adelaide that presented “Conclave” – a papal thriller based on Robert Harris’s novel.

This is a film you must see, certain to take out many Academy Awards. Obviously, the setting is the Vatican. The Pope has died. The film explores the process by which Cardinals come together to vote for a new Pope. What is clear from the outset is that the cardinals are real people with real frailties who are driven by human motives of lust, power and control.

Playwright Peter Straughan has adapted Harris’ work in a beautifully balanced way. The acting is outstanding and includes Ralph Fiennes who plays the role of Cardinal Lawrence, the manager of the election who claims no interest in the top job. Then there are the papal contenders : Cardinal Bellini (played by Stanley Tucci) whose charter is liberal open-mindedness; Cardinal Tedesco, played by Sergio Castellitto, representing the conservative right of the church; John Lithgow plays the role of Cardinal Tremblay, obsessed with a desire for greatness; Nigerian Cardinal Adeyemi, played by Lucian Msamati, is the representative of the black people; and finally, Cardinal Benitez, played by Carlos Diehz, a surprise attendee working in Afghanistan whose background is relatively unknown.

The music and photography is exceptional. Add to this a twisting storyline and you will be hooked. Ultimately, Cardinal Lawrence finds his position more to be that of a detective who must investigate the facts from hearsay – and allow the mystery to unfold. “Conclave” is an exciting and tense thriller that will keep you guessing through to the end. A scene involving Sister Agnes (played by Isabella Rossellini) turns the film.
I am not of the Roman Catholic faith, but I found this political drama absorbing and stimulating. Not to be missed. Be assured, there is no certainty in this world.